Laying fermentor on its side for more surface area?

[matthew_reagor]

I just got a 15 gal carboy for liquid malt extract and I plan on using it as a fermenter. I'm doing a Hefeweizen tonight and I was wondering if it would be beneficial to have it ferment on its side so there is more surface area for the yeast to grow, almost like an open fermentation by leaving the big bung off when it lays on its side.

 

[m00ps]

unless it was mostly empty, wouldnt the krausen start coming out through the neck?

I dont really see any potential advantage to having slightly more surface area of the beer exposed to air. It may even be detrimental

 

[matthew_reagor]

I've heard it is more traditional, and you don't get as much sulphur smell from the yeast that way. That's why they do open fermentations for hefs...

 

[botigol]

This thread discusses fermenter shape and it's effect on phenol production, specifically as it pertains to hefeweizen:

https://www.homebrewtalk.com/showthread.php?t=484727

 

[matthew_reagor]

Thanks for the link!